Vacuum Extractor Birth Injury

Maryland Birth Injury ATTORNEYS

Most births happen without incident and without serious complication. However, in complicated births, in which there is a breech delivery (the baby comes out feet first instead of head first) or the infant spends too much time in the birth canal, a doctor may opt to use assistive mechanical tools like forceps or a vacuum extractor to prevent serious injury to the baby and to complete the delivery safely.

In cases where the newborn is at risk of serious injury or death, the use of forceps or a vacuum extractor can save the child’s life. However, the use of these mechanical devices is not always to the benefit of the child. If a doctor arbitrarily feels that labor is taking too long, or simply wishes to finish the delivery quickly, the decision to use forceps or a vacuum extractor may put the child at unnecessary risk.

When you believe that your child suffered injuries through the inappropriate or reckless use of forceps or a vacuum extractor, you should contact the Maryland birth injury attorneys at Nash & Associates to explore your options for seeking the compensation you deserve.

How vacuum extraction births work

In a vacuum extraction birth, a vacuum extractor is attached to the baby’s head with a soft rubber or plastic cup, and the baby is pulled out of its mother during a contraction.

Injuries caused by vacuum extractors

Vacuum extractors can inflict a wide range of injuries on an infant, and should only be used when medically necessary. When used recklessly, the following injuries may result:

• Skull fracture
• Bruises or abrasions on the scalp
• Intracranial hemorrhaging

Preventing the use of vacuum extractors during birth

The best way to prevent a complicated birth and the potential use of a vacuum extractor during the birthing process is to make sure that all of the potential risk factors for both the mother and the child are evaluated. These include:

Contact Maryland birth injury attorneys

If your son or daughter has been injured by a vacuum extractor, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, medical bills, future medical bills, and other expenses. The Maryland birth injury attorneys at Nash and Associates LLC are known for their compassion and dedication to their clients, and are ready to help you. Contact a Maryland birth injury attorney at Nash & Associates today for an initial consultation.